The Dairy Innovation Hub has named Jennifer Van Os, associate professor and Extension specialist in animal welfare in the Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, as the inaugural UW–Madison faculty associate director.

Van Os will provide faculty leadership for Hub activities at UW–Madison. In her new role, she will work closely with Hub Director Maria Woldt, CALS leadership, faculty colleagues and stakeholders across Wisconsin’s dairy sector. Her responsibilities will include steering committee leadership, funding review processes, supporting Hub events and representing UW–Madison in collaborative Hub initiatives.

A recognized leader in animal welfare research and outreach, Van Os has built strong connections with dairy farmers, industry partners and university colleagues throughout Wisconsin. Her work focuses on advancing science-based animal care practices while helping farmers implement practical solutions that improve both animal well-being and farm success.

“Jennifer brings tremendous energy and fresh ideas to this role,” says Woldt. “She is a great match for the Madison steering committee and the exceptional team already in place.”

The faculty associate director position was created to mirror leadership roles established at the Hub’s partner campuses and strengthen coordination of research, outreach and engagement activities across the three participating universities. Supported by $7.8 million in annual state funding, the Hub advances collaborative research and development efforts at UW–Madison, UW–Platteville and UW–River Falls to help keep Wisconsin dairy at the forefront of innovation and sustainability.

As faculty associate director, Van Os will help shape the next chapter of the Dairy Innovation Hub at UW–Madison, strengthening connections among researchers, students, farmers, and industry partners while advancing the Hub’s mission of supporting a vibrant and innovative dairy community for Wisconsin.